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Eating Disorder Awareness

Dear Parents and Guardians:

Eating disorders are behaviors that can lead to serious health problems. These behaviors can begin as a child, and affect both girls and boys. When discovered early, eating disorders are treatable. In 2013, Virginia passed a law requiring every school system provide information to parents annually about eating disorders. This information is given to parents of students in the fifth through twelfth grades.

It is important to note that eating disorders are not identified based on weight changes as much as behaviors and attitudes. Signs of eating disorders may differ between males and females and in different age groups. Often, a young person may not recognize the signs that they might have an eating disorder. Parents/guardians and family members are in a position to notice behaviors that cause concern. It is important that a child with an eating disorder be treated early by someone who understands this type of care.

After reviewing the information on the back of this letter, if you think your child may be showing signs of a possible eating disorder, please contact your doctor, school nurse, or one of the resources listed below.

Eating Disorders Fact Sheet

What Are Eating Disorders?

Eating disorders are conditions that can have a serious effect on health. They are serious behaviors that affect every aspect of the child’s life. Eating disorders may be identified based on weight changes, but also based on behaviors and attitudes. Be alert for any of these signs in your child. Eating disorders affect both males and females of all ages.

Key things to look for around food:

Weight is NOT the only indicator of an eating disorder, as people of all sizes may be suffering.

Eating a lot of food that seems out of control (large amounts of food may disappear, you find a lot of empty wrappers hidden)

Develops food rules—may eat only a particular food or food group, cuts food into very small pieces, or spreads food out on the plate

Exercises all the time, more than what is healthy or recommended – despite weather, lack of energy, illness, or injury

Stops doing their regular activities, spends more time alone (can be spending more time exercising)

Physical Risk Factors:

Feels cold all the time or complains of being tired all the time. Likely to become more irritable and/or nervous.

Any vomiting after eating (or see signs in the bathroom of vomiting – smell, clogged shower drain)

Any use of laxatives or diuretics (or you find empty packages)

Other Risk Factors:

Believes that they are too big or too fat (regardless of reality)

Asks often to be reassured about how they look

Stops hanging out with their friends

Not able to talk about how they are feeling

Reports others are newly judgmental or “not connecting”

If Your Child Shows Signs of a Possible Eating Disorder

Seek help from your doctor as soon as possible; a child with an eating disorder should be seen by someone who understands the treatment of eating disorders. The earlier a person with an eating disorder seeks treatment, the greater the likelihood of physical and emotional recovery.

How to Communicate with Your Child

Understand that eating disorder sufferers often deny that there is a problem.

Educate yourself on eating disorders

Ask what you can do to help

Listen openly and reflectively

Be patient and nonjudgmental

Talk with your child in a kind way when you are calm and not angry, frustrated, or upset

Let him/her know you only want the best for him/her

Remind your child that he/she has people who care and support him/her

Be flexible and open with your support

Be honest

Show care, concern, and understanding

Ask how he/she is feeling

Try to be a good role model- don’t engage in ‘fat talk’ about yourself

Understand that your child is not looking for attention or pity

Seek professional help on behalf of your child if you have ANY concerns